Transporting Toy Trucks from China to Mexico: Safety and Import Duties​

Transporting Toy Trucks from China to Mexico: Safety and Import Duties​

Transporting toy trucks from China to Mexico involves complying with regulations set by Mexico’s Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (COFEPRIS) and the Ministry of Economy. These regulations cover safety, labeling, and import duties.​

Toy trucks must meet COFEPRIS safety standards, which prohibit the use of harmful substances like lead, phthalates, and heavy metals. The trucks must be durable, with no small parts that could break off and pose a choking hazard, especially for toys intended for children under 5. A COFEPRIS certification is required for most toys sold in Mexico, and the certification mark must be displayed on the packaging.​

Labeling requirements include Spanish translations of all text, including age recommendations, safety warnings, and manufacturer information. The packaging must also indicate that the product meets COFEPRIS standards.​

Import duties for toy trucks in Mexico are typically around 10%, plus a value-added tax (VAT) of 16%. Working with a local customs broker to calculate these costs and ensure proper payment is essential to avoid delays. Critical transport advice: Mexico’s customs system uses a risk-scoring system – declare the exact value (not under-invoice) to avoid being flagged as high-risk. For cross-border trucking from ports like Veracruz to inland cities, use bonded carriers to prevent theft, a common issue for toy shipments. Also, schedule deliveries to avoid Mexican holidays (e.g., Day of the Dead in early November) when customs offices are understaffed.​

Documentation for customs clearance includes a commercial invoice, packing list, COFEPRIS certification, and a certificate of origin. The invoice must include a detailed description of the toy trucks, their materials, and value.​

Logistics options include sea freight from Shenzhen to Veracruz (30–40 days) or air freight to Mexico City (6–8 days). Due to Mexico’s customs procedures, allowing extra time for clearance is advisable. Choosing a freight forwarder with experience in Mexican imports can help navigate the bureaucratic requirements and minimize delays.​

COFEPRIS may inspect shipments to verify compliance, so ensuring all toy trucks meet safety and labeling standards is crucial.